22 Things I’ve Learned by 22

I’ve seen people write this kind of post a lot, and it’s finally my turn to write my own! Today is my 22nd birthday, and in honor of that occasion, I am going to share with you 22 things I’ve learned in my 22 years on this earth! Here we go:

1. It’s okay to make mistakes, and don’t be afraid to tell others about them.
2. Always speak up about how you really feel, in relationships, at work, etc.
3. Sometimes things take time. (Patience is a virtue.)
4. My parents were right about pretty much everything.
5. Don’t look at your life through a lens — making actual real memories and enjoying the moment is more important than taking a thousand pictures.
6. Always carry emergency cash with you.
7. Don’t underestimate the power of an outfit you really love.
8. Being a good listener is a really important life skill to learn.
9. Go to bed earlier and stick to a sleep schedule.
10. Take chances, even if it’s something you don’t want to do or are afraid of.
11. You will always have bad days, but they will pass.
12. If you’re struggling with portion control: eat only until you don’t feel hungry anymore. Don’t wait until your body has to tell you you’re full.
13. Excuse yourself from drama. There’s no need to get involved with something that will only bring you down and you probably won’t care about in a month.
14. Have a hobby. “Going out” is not an acceptable hobby. What makes you, you?
15. Try to get an internship and/or work experience in college. It will be a lot harder to find your first job when you’re also worrying about paying bills.
16. On the same note, a “dream job” is not something that’s always attainable immediately. Work hard at something even if it’s not exactly what you want, and always be looking for ways to make your dream happen. See #3.
17. Taking time for self-care is essential. You can’t be at 100% all the time, especially if you neglect yourself.
18. You don’t need validation from anyone but yourself.
19. Don’t go grocery shopping when you’re hungry. And always make a list beforehand and stick to it.
20. After college you have to put in the effort to keep up with friends because people move away and schedules start getting busy. If it’s a friend you care about, try to text them at least weekly to stay in touch. You can’t always rely on others to contact you first.
21. Don’t worry about things in the future. They haven’t happened yet, and most of the time the worry you’ve built up in your mind is worse than the actual thing.
22. Remember, remember, remember: you are enough.

 

What’s the best advice on this list for you? I’d love your feedback in the comments below!

 

LET’S BE FRIENDS:

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